Sangamo Timer Problems

Sangamo timers, known for their reliability, have been extensively used in commercial settings to control lighting systems. However, as with any device, they can sometimes present issues. Let’s delve into a common problem with the Sangamo timer for outside lights and some possible solutions, along with addressing related concerns.

The Issue with the Sangamo Timer: In certain establishments, there’s a problem with the Sangamo timer that controls the outside lights, specifically for fluorescent tubes illuminating shop signs. When manually operated, the lights work, but they do not switch off during the daytime as programmed. Instead, they remain lit continuously, leading to unnecessary energy consumption.

Possible Causes and Solutions:

1. Faulty Timer: It is a possibility that the timer itself is faulty and might need replacement.
2. Misaligned On/Off Arms: The timer has on/off arms with pins underneath. These pins are designed to engage the timer’s mechanism, ensuring the lights switch off and on at the right times. If the pins are misaligned or if the on/off arms overlap, they might not operate correctly. Carefully adjusting these arms and ensuring the right order (i.e., on with the shortest pin at the bottom followed by the off with the shortest pin) can often rectify the issue.
3. Day Wheel Misalignment: The day wheel feature prevents the timer from turning lights on during certain days, but usually, it doesn’t affect the off function. However, it’s essential to ensure the arrows on the day wheel point in the correct direction. Misalignment can cause malfunctioning of the timer.
4. Overriding Functions: Some timers are equipped with an override button. If this button is inadvertently pressed, it could impact the timer’s function. Checking this can be helpful.

In addition to the timer problem, the shop in question had multiple electrical issues:

1. EM Lights: There’s a lack of fish keys for emergency lights, and many of them don’t indicate if they’re charging. During power outages, they fail to come on, making them essentially non-functional during emergencies. It’s advised to get a professional electrician to inspect them. These switches might belong to the MEM grid range, which requires a specific kind of key, MEM key, for operation.
2. Missing Electrical Equipment: There’s a missing blank in the main DB, a missing UPS, and no covers for the Sangamo timers. This could lead to potential electrical hazards and should be addressed immediately.
3. Unsecured Cables: The cables for the front fluorescent lights hang loosely over the signs, which can be dangerous and unsightly.

Recommendations:

1. Engage a Professional: If you’re unfamiliar with electrical systems, it’s essential to involve a professional electrician to diagnose and address the problems. The safety risks associated with electrical systems should not be underestimated.
2. Acquire Necessary Equipment: For the MEM switches, acquire the MEM keys. They are essential for proper functioning and can be obtained from electrical wholesalers or directly from MEM.
3. Routine Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining electrical systems can prevent many of the issues from arising in the first place.

In conclusion, while the Sangamo timers are generally reliable, like all electrical systems, they can have glitches. Addressing these promptly and ensuring regular maintenance can lead to efficient and safe operations.